HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical path starts in secondary school with strong English, math, drafting, blueprint reading, and computer courses, plus art or design classes if available. Many students then take a university architecture program, such as a Bachelor of Architecture, or a related postsecondary route accepted by some employers and provinces. During or after school, co-op, internships, or entry-level work in an architecture firm can help build experience with sketches, drawings, models, and building plans. Some architects later specialize in residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional projects, and requirements can vary by employer and province.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Consult with clients to determine type, style and purpose of renovations or new building construction being considered
- Conceptualize and design buildings and develop plans describing design specifications, building materials, costs and construction schedules
- Prepare sketches and models for clients
- Prepare or supervise the preparation of drawings, specifications and other construction documents for use by contractors and tradespersons
- Prepare bidding documents, participate in contract negotiations and award construction contracts
- Monitor activities on construction sites to ensure compliance with specifications
- Conduct feasibility studies and financial analyses of building projects.
- Architects may specialize in a particular type of construction such as residential, commercial, industrial or institutional.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Financial ManagementLeadershipMaking presentationsProject ManagementProposal writingTeam project work